Latest news with #Maxima
ABC News
4 days ago
- Business
- ABC News
Major disability employment provider Maxima tells staff it has lost federal funding
A major disability employment provider supporting more than 6,000 Australians living with disability has told staff it has lost a federal government contract to deliver services in all states except Western Australia. ABC News understands Maxima employees were told on Thursday that the organisation had lost the tender to continue providing disability employment services through the federal government's recently-rebranded "Inclusive Employment Australia" (IEA) program. In a document sent to workers and sighted by ABC News, the organisation's management wrote that "most" of its disability employment services roles — with the exception of those in WA — would be impacted from November 1 this year. "Unfortunately, Maxima will no longer deliver IEA services (formerly DES) outside of Western Australia from November 1, 2025, onwards," the document states. According to its website, Maxima is a "national, for-purpose, employment services organisation that supports people in their pursuit of meaningful work". The website states the organisation, which is headquartered in Adelaide, has more than 400 employees and supports more than 6,000 disability employment services customers across the country. The announcement to staff was made on the same day South Australian disability support service and employer Bedford flagged it could be forced to enter voluntary administration this weekend. Bedford said the move could "directly impact 1,400 people with disability across South Australia" but was hopeful the federal government would throw it a financial lifeline. According to the document sent by Maxima to workers on Thursday, the Department of Social Services (DSS) set an embargo on telling clients and the broader public about the tender outcome. The document stated the DSS set the embargo "to allow providers to work with their teams without … additional external pressure arising from wider knowledge". "We understand that you may need to speak to your family during this difficult time," the document states. "We ask that yourself and any person you disclose this information to, refrains from discussing the details with other people outside of Maxima, including customers and employers, during the embargo period. "Over the following week, we will provide you with the relevant information to share with customers in preparation for the outcome being publicly announced." Maxima management wrote that they expected the embargo to lift "within the first week of August". 'This is still very new information and we had not anticipated this outcome,' the document sent to workers states. A Maxima spokesperson told ABC News the organisation was unable to comment on the outcome of the IEA tender as it was under embargo by the federal government. "Our other services – Recruitment, Traineeships and Apprenticeships, and Indigenous Employment – continue as usual and are unaffected by the IEA tender. "We will continue to support our employees and customers and communicate with our customers once the Federal Government embargo is lifted, ahead of new IEA contracts taking effect from November." A spokesperson from the Department of Social Services said the federal government was "reforming disability employment services" which "reflect extensive consultation" with the disability community. "The changes will mean more people accessing services, more tailored support, more accountability and more support for providers. The new program will help an extra 15,000 people with disability across the country find a job that they love," they said. "To implement the changes, a competitive, open tender process was conducted to select providers for the next five years. As with any tender, some organisations have been successful and others haven't. "There is no reduction of services in any area in the country, including South Australia." They said those living with a disability still had access to about 20 organisations under Inclusive Employment Australia. "This includes an increase in access to providers who have specialist expertise in working with people with particular disabilities or from particular cohorts," the spokesperson said. The DSS did not confirm the change but said "people with a disability who are currently supported by Maxima don't need to do anything just yet". "They will be able to choose a new provider in their area that best suits their needs. Support will be available to help with that process, including a dedicated hotline to provide any help that participants need," they said. According to the DSS website, IEA is "a new specialist disability employment program" that would support people with disability, as well as those with injury or health conditions, to "prepare for, find and maintain work, and grow their career". The website states IEA would replace the current "Disability Employment Program" and would "improve and simplify services for people looking for work". "A diverse network of high-quality providers will deliver the new program," the website states. "There will be greater focus on providers with staff and leadership reflecting the diversity of their community." According to the document sent by Maxima to workers on Thursday, the organisation was "not closing". "We are committed to continuing to deliver DES (disability employment services) in Western Australia, and our recruitment services, group training, Indigenous employment, and labour hire programs — all programs which remain key pillars of our business," it said. "While this is a significant and difficult change, this is not the end of Maxima".
News18
17-07-2025
- Politics
- News18
Netherlands Princess, Who Wrote Thesis On AI, Didn't Get Her Degree; Here's Why
Last Updated: Princess Catharina-Amalia studied Politics, Psychology, Law and Economics (PPLE) at the University of Amsterdam. The Netherlands King Willem-Alexander and Queen Maxima recently toasted the graduation of their daughter Princess Catharina-Amalia. While the family attended her convocation ceremony on July 14, the Princess is yet to get her degree. Princess Catharina-Amalia's Convocation Ceremony The 21-year-old royal's graduation event was attended by her parents, paternal grandmother, Princess Beatrix, and younger sisters, Princess Alexia and Princess Ariane. The official Instagram account of the Royal House of the Netherlands shared a couple of pictures from the event — one of which featured Catharina-Amalia holding a document and another had all the royal members. What caught the attention of social media users is the content of the document. Donning a graduation cap, the Princess held a certificate of attendance and not completion of degree. What Did Princess Catharina-Amalia Study? Catharina-Amalia began her programme in 2022 and studied Politics, Psychology, Law and Economics (PPLE) at the University of Amsterdam. The topic of her thesis was – 'Beyond Disclosure: Bridging the Gap Between the Artificial Intelligence Act and the Charter of Fundamental Rights with Deepfaked Bodies'. As part of the research, she examined the tension between AI legislation and European fundamental rights. But Why No Degree? The University of Amsterdam explained that Princess Catharina-Amalia still has one course left to complete. 'Due to a broken arm, she still has one course left to complete, but the diploma will follow soon," it mentioned. The 21-year-old has been granted a deferment and therefore, will receive her bachelor's degree at a later date. The post went on to add that the Princess will start a Law degree at the university next year and join the Defensity College. Born on December 7, 2003 in The Hague, Catharina‑Amalia Beatrix Carmen Victoria is the eldest daughter of King Willem‑Alexander and Queen Maxima. Since her father's accession in April 2013, she has held the title Princess of Orange, given to the heir apparent. After attending public schools in Wassenaar and at Christelijk Gymnasium Sorghvliet in The Hague, she graduated in 2021 with distinction followed by her enrolment at the University of Amsterdam. view comments First Published: Disclaimer: Comments reflect users' views, not News18's. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy.
Miami Herald
15-07-2025
- Automotive
- Miami Herald
How Nissan Avoided a Massive Recall With One Smart Strategy
After nearly seven years of scrutiny, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has officially closed its investigation into more than 2 million Nissan vehicles over concerns of rear suspension failure - and it's doing so without demanding a agency's probe, originally opened in 2018 and upgraded to an engineering analysis in 2019, focused on whether corrosion could lead to the lower rear control arm separating from the chassis. It covered 2013–2018 Nissan Altima and 2016–2018 Maxima models, and while more than 1,300 owner complaints were examined, only one incident involved actual contact - a minor bump into a trailer hitch. No injuries were that might seem anticlimactic, it's far from unusual. The NHTSA has become increasingly selective about issuing recalls in recent years, often opting to close cases when manufacturers proactively address faults through internal fixes or extended warranties - as Nissan did here. The case revolved around corrosion accelerated by road salts used in colder U.S. states. Nissan acknowledged that a crack could form in the control arms due to routine stress and salt exposure, especially on high-mileage vehicles (the average odometer reading in these reports exceeded 113,000 miles). The automaker introduced a redesigned part in January 2018 and launched a "customer satisfaction campaign" in 2019, replacing the component in more than 47,000 vehicles and extending the warranty coverage to 10 years for many affected a declining trend in complaints and new parts already fitted to a large portion of the affected population, the NHTSA decided further action wasn't warranted - though it's still a good reminder that corrosion-related failures are far from rare in America's salt belt. The decision comes just several days after the agency opened a far newer probe into 1.2 million Ram trucks over a separate defect, which suggests that while NHTSA may be backing off Nissan, it's still keeping a close eye on automakers elsewhere in the industry. The Nissan ruling also highlights a broader shift at the NHTSA. Critics - including automakers like Toyota, VW, and GM - have increasingly argued that the agency's safety rules haven't kept up with modern manufacturing realities. And yet, in other areas, NHTSA has taken steps to adapt, such as easing approval timelines for driverless vehicle exemptions, allowing companies to bypass requirements like steering wheels or pedals when deploying autonomous course, regulation remains a delicate balancing act. On one hand, Tesla and others have raised concerns that crash-reporting mandates unfairly single out autonomous systems - an issue that may be addressed soon if proposals from Trump's policy team to scrap outdated crash-reporting requirements come into for Nissan, the lack of a recall doesn't necessarily mean the issue is closed forever. Owners in affected states are still advised to check for campaign PC690 and ensure their suspension components are up to spec. While the NHTSA's engineering books may be closed, long-term ownership and safety often rely on vigilance beyond what regulators require. Copyright 2025 The Arena Group, Inc. All Rights Reserved.
Yahoo
10-07-2025
- Automotive
- Yahoo
This Nissan model is the most stolen car in Tennessee. Why it attracts car thieves and how to stop them
In 2024 over 850,000 vehicles were stolen in the United States, according to Motor vehicle theft is the third most common property crime. Some vehicles are more popular among thieves than others. Online publisher Visual Capitalist recently published a map of the most stolen vehicles in the United States. While the Hyundai Elantra is the most stolen vehicle in 21 American states, here's what they list as the most stolen car, truck, or SUV in the state of Tennessee. Based on a FinanceBuzz review of National Insurance Crime Bureau data, the Nissan Maxima is the most stolen car in Tennessee. The Maxima is a midsize sedan that was discontinued after the 2023 model year. It was once one of the most popular models in the Japanese automaker's portfolio of vehicles. Now, the Nissan Altima is the brand's only midsize sedan. After over 40 years on the market, Nissan axed the Maxima nameplate due to dwindling sales numbers, according to Car and Driver. The Nissan Maxima may be discontinued, but there are plenty of used models on American roads. So, why are car thieves targeting Nissans? Car thieves can use key reprogrammers to easily gain access to certain Nissan nameplates, according to a Milwaukee news clip regarding Nissan thefts. Key reprogrammers allow car thieves to hijack a vehicle's key fob signal in a few seconds, making theft incredibly easy. Nissans aren't exclusively susceptible to this method, as several other automotive brands are targeted across the country using similar techniques. Since the Maxima is discontinued, it can't benefit from any new Nissan anti-theft innovations. So, what can Tennesseans do if they own a car that's popular among car thieves? Thanks to modern technological innovations there are several ways to deter or prevent auto theft entirely. Some vehicles come standard with anti-theft systems and tech like engine immobilizers. There's also aftermarket devices and tech that drivers can add to their vehicles including trackers and more. Ignition cut-off Automatic passive alarms Tracking signals Steering wheel lock Though anti-theft systems like a steering wheel lock may seem antiquated, this type of system is one way to ensure that no one can operate your vehicle using your steering wheel without the key to the lock. You can use Apple AirTags and other tracking devices/apps to keep tabs on your vehicle at all times. Geico also recommends keeping your vehicle title outside of the vehicle in the event that it is stolen. Anti-theft systems may not seem like a necessity, but they can make a huge difference in preventing vehicle theft. They're especially recommended if you don't have a way to surveil your vehicle when it's parked near your home. The quicker you report your car stolen, the better your chances are of recovering it, according to Roughly 80% of stolen vehicles are recovered within the first two days of the theft. So, if your car is stolen in Tennessee, the first step you should take is reporting the theft to the authorities. After contacting the authorities, the next step is to contact your auto insurance provider. If you have comprehensive insurance, the theft may be covered by your policy. Getting your car stolen is a horrible experience, but there are ways to deter theft and steps to follow if your vehicle is stolen. Anti-theft technology may have evolved over the years, but so have car thieves, so remain vigilant and prepared to prevent auto theft. This article originally appeared on Nashville Tennessean: The most stolen car in Tennessee is a Nissan. Why it attracts thieves
Geek Dad
09-07-2025
- Entertainment
- Geek Dad
Review – Superman Treasury 2025: Hero For All #1 – Return of the Legend
Superman Treasury: Hero for All #1 cover, via DC Comics. Ray: It's the Summer of Superman, as the character's biggest movie in well over a decade is coming out in days – so it's only fitting that we're getting some epic comics to celebrate. While other writers have had more high-profile runs, I don't think anyone has done more to define the Man of Steel in the last few decades than Dan Jurgens – he wrote him for over ten years post-John Byrne and shepherded him through some of his most iconic stories. So it's a great choice that for this oversized annual of sorts (over 60 story pages!), Jurgens is back to do a story that feels like a celebration of his entire era. It seems to be set in a sort of middle ground – back when Jon was still a kid, but after the Kents returned to Metropolis. Man of Action. Via DC Comics. And it kicks off in a big way – with a massive-scale alien invasion hitting Metropolis. This has happened before, of course, but Superman is taken aback by the scale of the attack, which seems to have a personal edge to it. He manages to defeat the giant robot that launches the attack – but then disappears as the true mastermind of the attack is revealed. It's an alliance of Maxima, whose resentment over Superman choosing a human over her has curdled over into hatred, and Hank Henshaw, who she's taken as her consort and never refuses an opportunity to target Superman. They've found a semi-willing ally in Queen Glynna, the shady alien princess who manipulated Jon Kent in one of Jurgens' backups. But as the other heroes of Earth battle to stay alive, Superman is otherwise occupied – finding himself in a vision of another world where he never became the hero he was supposed to. In this one, Jonathan Kent was killed in a tornado when Clark was a child. That left Clark feeling more tied to the farm, hesitant to leave Martha alone. The only one who tried to convince him to leave was…Lex Luthor, his childhood best friend. And in this world, Clark does make it to the Daily Planet, but he's working for Lex, living a quiet life, and watching as Lex gets everything he ever wanted. It's an interesting little side-take on classic stories like 'Whatever Happened to the Man of Tomorrow?' It's fascinating to watch Superman rediscover who he's meant to be, and Jurgens takes over the pen for a multi-page segment that has Superman regain his memories – and take us through the entirety of Jurgens' run, including characters like Conduit and stories that I never thought we'd see revisited. The final showdown is dramatic, if a bit abrupt after the more character-driven stories that start this issue, and Jurgens' Superman is note-perfect as always. Bruno Redondo, who draws 90% of the issue, is just as good here as he was on Nightwing, and this issue is a perfect capper to the hundreds of Superman stories Jurgens has written over the year. Let's hope this coming movie is as good as the comics DC has been putting out lately. To find reviews of all the DC issues, visit DC This Week. GeekDad received this comic for review purposes. Liked it? Take a second to support GeekDad and GeekMom on Patreon!
